Don't I have to have health insurance? Isn't there a penalty to pay if I don't?

Based on current legislation, the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandate for minimum eligible coverage (MEC) and its associated financial penalty is due to expire 1/1/19. This removes the need at a federal level for an individual to have health insurance or a certain type of health insurance in order to avoid paying an annual penalty.

However, there are some states in the US which have state-level mandates and associated tax penalties for not having qualified insurance coverage. Each potential member will need to understand their state level requirements, any associated penalties, and make the decision that is best for their individual case.